Alec Wescott was not at all intimidated by the numerous requirements that the princess elect demanded as prerequisite for participation to the project that she would be organizing. An audit, a review of financial records, historical data on the company’s past charity work, and perhaps the capability of the company to react to an epidemic – these were all reasonable requests from a potential client, especially one affiliated to the crown. It was not something new to him, because on his way to becoming a COO, he had the pleasure of interacting with the different forms of governments throughout the globe. It was the farmer, who had taken him by surprise. The COO clearly underestimated the woman’s mental prowess because of her pedigree. She spoke and carried herself like an educated woman, which was not to be expected from a mere farmer.

Nevertheless, the foreigner managed to maintain his good-natured countenance. “I fully understand, Miss Black. Rest assured that Evolab will comply to all the requisites.” He turned to Luke. The woman may be the brains behind the outreach, but Alec recognized that her future husband was the real authority who could make or break the deal. “This will not be the first time that we will be engaging with a partnership with the government,” Alec continued, though he was addressing Luke directly that time. “Without meaning to boast, we’ve had successful health campaigns in the Americas and the kingdoms in the middle east, where we continue to partner with the Health Ministries or Departments – whatever they are called – in promoting better quality of life.” 

The crown prince, on the other hand, was relishing the element of surprise that Rhiane brought to the table. She was his wildcard that afternoon – his secret weapon against Sophia and his against the young COO’s sweet talking. Both were working absurdly well. His ex-lover was struggling to control her composure, while her alleged new love was not getting the result he thought he would that afternoon. The quick dismissal of his sultry date was the cherry on top. Luke kept his face blank and businesslike, but deep inside he was proud of what the farmer had accomplished without his help. 

“Just a moment, love,” Luke smiled at Rhiane, before addressing both the COO and the actress who had fallen inexplicably quiet throughout the exchange. “As I have mentioned, I do not usually involve myself in these types of projects. But I assure you, Mr. Wescott, that there will be a public bidding to give fair chance to every able party willing to support Rhiane’s cause. It will also work to dispel any doubt from the public’s minds that either I, my mother, or my future wife has played favorites. The matter on who gets to win the contract for this project will be left to the hands of the Bids and Awards Committee.” To anybody who knew where to find the information, every noble house’s assets was accessible. Annual reports summarizing their sources of income, properties, etc. were available to the public to show a semblance of transparency. Luke’s ownership of shares of Evolab was therefore not totally a secret. “Much as I would like to talk further about business, I’m afraid that we have to excuse ourselves.”

Alec was gracious enough to let them go without passing another argument that tried to sell the organization he represented. “It was a pleasure discussing a potential partnership with you, your highness and Miss Black. I am fully aware of Miss Black’s unfortunate accident the other night, and I rather suggest that she rest her foot. We have plenty of time to discuss business and economic matters later.” He gestured for one of the ushers to guide the couple to their table. 

Luke thanked the COO and passed a glance at Sophia before turning to follow the woman tasked with leading them to their designated seats. He had a feeling that his plan was working and if her sudden lack of words was an indication, then he was correct. 

“Whose idea was the stilettos?” the prince asked after a few steps. If he was smiling when he called her ‘love’ moments earlier, his voice was humorless asking her the question. She was not used to wearing heels and she already hurt herself while wearing a pair. Whoever had suggested that it was a good idea to don another pair must either be absurdly unwise or had ill-wishes towards the princess elect. 

They reached a circular table covered in white table cloth with blue trimmings. Like a gentleman, he pulled her chair out for her and waited for her to take a seat before he did so himself. Four other empty chairs surrounded the furniture. “A simple ‘No’ would have sufficed,” he commented regarding her response to Evolab’s COO. “I must admit that I am impressed that you do not seem to be threatened by Alec Wescott’s stature. However, the epidemic eight years ago is very specific.” Then it hit him and when it did, when his mind was finally able to connect the dots, the prince’s lips fell into a flat line. Her mother and brother. He wanted to say something else, but a message caught his attention. 

[i]I need to talk to you,[/i] it said.